Sunday, May 09, 2010

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but was pleasantly surprised. I had never heard of the Hutterite people, so each page taught me something new. It was well written and easy to understand. The author gave us a close, personal glance into her early life, and as a result, I found myself feeling like I "knew" the people and the events that happened.

Even still, there seem to be a sense of detachment from the author and the 'story' she was telling. For the part of the book that dealt with her youth, that could be understood as children sometimes only see things in a small framework of their life.

Though I really enjoyed the first 2/3s of the book, I felt that it transitioned very quickly in her later teenage years, and I felt as if I didn't see the transition coming. In that respect, it seemed to me to feel hurried or pressed to finish.

Overall, I thought it was a very interesting read and would heartily recommend it for those wishing to learn about small people groups like this. It is not a deep intellectual read, nor is it overtly spiritual, but it is pleasant and easy to understand.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Monday, May 03, 2010

I have read Pete's blog on occasion, so it was with interest that I received the book and read it.

I found it to be easily read and understood. So many times, Christian writers tend to fall into the trap of making it sound complicated, but Wilson's book does not do that. His writing style, though not a true conversational style, is personal and is reminiscent of sitting on the front porch talking with a friend. It is filled with poignant stories and examples, but also has the well placed chuckle to keep you going.

If I had any complaint about the book it is that it seemed to me that he kept repeating the same thoughts in each chapter. Rather than building on the previous chapter, it seemed to be the same thoughts verbalized a different way. That said, I also recognize that sometimes those for whom the book was written may benefit from hearing it several times.

Would I recommend the book? Yes. I believe Wilson is teaching some valuable lessons that Christians can learn, and perhaps NEED to learn, and it serves as a valuable reminder that things aren't always going to go as we planned, and at those times, we can trust in God for the alternative plan.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”